Susan J. Relf, MD

Dr. Relf is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and received her Doctor of Medicine degree and completed her residency in Ophthalmology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

Dr. Relf, is an American Board of Ophthalmology certified Ophthalmologist. She began her practice in Duluth in 1992 and founded Relf EyeCare Specialists (formerly Relf Eye Associates) in 2000. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor of the University of Minnesota, and a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

Dr. Relf practices General Ophthalmology, focusing on eye diseases such as Cataract, Glaucoma, and Macular Degeneration.

Why I became an eye doctor…

I entered medicine with the desire to help people by making a difference in their lives.

My decision to become an eye doctor stemmed from my appreciation of design and aesthetics – eyes are incredibly well designed and universally beautiful! They are the window into the heart and soul… I was attracted to the “primary care” aspect of eye care, helping people of all ages, following them and their families through the years. You really get to know your patients! I’ve always enjoyed doing fine work with my hands, and eye surgery provides an excellent opportunity to refine and apply these skills in a meaningful way. Also, education is something I enjoy and being an eye doctor provides ample opportunity to educate both patients and peers. Patients are VERY interested in their eyes – eager to learn and participate in their care. Colleagues often find that we as eye doctors make important contributions to the general medical care of their patients – we teach them too!

In short, I entered medicine with the intent to serve – to use my abilities to make a difference in peoples’ lives. Helping people to see spans the broad spectrum of medicine. Operating on peoples’ eyes is challenging, fun, and rewarding – the results of our work are readily visible and appreciated. People do care about their eyes, and we do make a difference!